Cordelia Cupp is the newest and most fascinating character in Netflix’s The Residence, a “screwball whodunit” that boasts a star-studded cast. Played by Uzo Aduba, Cordelia is a brilliant and self-assured detective with a unique blend of stubbornness, patience, and obsessive behavior – possibly neurodivergent traits. What sets her apart from other eccentric detectives like Hercule Poirot or Benoit Blanc is her refreshingly virtuous nature.
In the show’s classic Agatha-Christie-inspired setup, Cordelia investigates a suspicious death within the White House during a state dinner. As she delves deeper into the case, she encounters a coterie of high-ranking government officials and potential suspects, each with their own agendas. Despite the many twists and turns, Cordelia remains tenacious and focused on uncovering the truth.
The key to The Residence lies in Cordelia’s character, who brings specificity and humanity to the story. Through her birdwatching hobby and childhood origin story, we glimpse a complex and deeply feeling individual. Her love of investigation becomes a love language for her, making it impossible not to be invested in her quest for justice.
While The Residence may feel overstuffed and formulaic at times, Cordelia Cupp is an absolute revelation. With her unique blend of intelligence, wit, and compassion, she deserves more than just this single story. Netflix would do well to realize her full potential beyond this whodunit mystery.
Source: https://time.com/7269318/the-residence-review-netflix